Published on June 11, 2026

From 1 July 2026, important changes to Australia’s Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF) laws will impact the real estate industry and a range of other professional services.

At CRE Brokers, these changes mean we may need to request identification documents and additional information from our clients before we can provide certain services.

While this may feel unfamiliar to some clients, these requirements are designed to strengthen Australia’s financial system and help combat criminal activity including money laundering, fraud and terrorism financing.

Why Are These Changes Happening?

The Australian Government is expanding AML/CTF obligations to industries considered vulnerable to criminal exploitation.

Historically, these obligations mainly applied to banks and financial institutions. However, from 1 July 2026, the laws will also apply to:

• Real estate professionals
•  
• Lawyers
•  
• Conveyancers
•  
• Accountants
•  
• Trust and company service providers
•  
• Dealers in precious metals and stones

This means businesses like CRE Brokers will have legal obligations to verify the identity of clients and conduct customer due diligence before certain transactions or services can proceed.

What Does This Mean for Buyers and Sellers?

If you are buying or selling a business, hotel, motel, caravan park, freehold property or other commercial asset through CRE Brokers, you may be asked to provide identification documents and additional information about your circumstances.

This process is similar to what occurs when opening a bank account or applying for finance.

The checks are intended to:

• • Confirm you are who you claim to be
• • Protect the integrity of financial transactions
• • Reduce the risk of fraud and criminal activity
• • Ensure compliance with Australian law

These obligations apply to all clients and are not a reflection of suspicion or concern.

What Identification May Be Required?

The type of identification required will depend on the nature of the transaction and the services being provided.

In many cases, a single form of photographic identification may be sufficient, such as:

• • Driver’s licence
• • Passport
• • Proof of age card
• Digital driver’s licences may also be accepted where permitted.

Your identification will generally need to confirm:

• • Your full legal name
• • Residential address
• • Date of birth

If you are acting as a business owner, company director or sole trader, additional information may also be requested, including:

• • Business name
• • Registered business address
• • Australian Business Number (ABN)
• • Company or trust details

Why Might We Request Additional Information?

Under the new legislation, reporting entities are required to monitor and assess risks associated with transactions and clients.

This means that in some circumstances, additional questions or documentation may be required — even for long-term clients.

The level of information requested may vary depending on:

• • The type of transaction
• • The structure of ownership
• • The jurisdictions involved
• • Regulatory risk factors

As industries and financial risks evolve, businesses are legally required to adapt their compliance procedures accordingly.

Your Privacy Matters

Any personal information collected as part of these obligations is protected under the Privacy Act 1988.

At CRE Brokers, we understand the importance of confidentiality and privacy. Information provided for AML/CTF compliance purposes will be handled securely and only used in accordance with our legal obligations.

Supporting a Safer Industry

These reforms are part of a broader national effort to strengthen transparency and accountability across Australia’s financial and property sectors.

While the additional identification requirements may add another step to the process, they are designed to protect both businesses and consumers while supporting a safer and more secure marketplace.

If you have any questions about these upcoming changes or the information we may require, the team at CRE Brokers will be happy to assist.

Disclaimer:
The information contained in this article is general in nature and has been sourced and adapted from publicly available information provided by the Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (AUSTRAC) regarding upcoming Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF) reforms.

The information is intended as a general overview only and should not be considered legal, financial or compliance advice. Requirements may vary depending on individual circumstances and legislative updates. Clients should seek independent professional advice where appropriate.